Capitola fire engulfs duplex on 41st Avenue

CAPITOLA -- A blaze engulfed a duplex on the 600 block of 41st Avenue near the Hook surf spot just before 5 p.m. Saturday, causing several nearby homes to be evacuated as a precautionary measure.

The fire, which broke out in the garage, was under control within a half hour, though the fire continued to burn and heavy smoke and flames could be seen, said Mike DeMars of Central Fire Protection District.

The fire destroyed a truck parked in the garage, DeMars said.

No one was injured.

Several streets -- including 41st Avenue at Portola Drive, Opal Cliffs Drive and East Cliff Drive -- were closed near the duplex while firefighters worked to put out the blaze.

The son of the owner opened the garage door when he smelled "an electric smell" and was hit in the face with smoke, DeMars said.

He evacuated the home and called 911, DeMars said.

Capitola police officers and Sheriff's Office deputies helped control traffic in the area.